Treatments: ClosureFast

Treatment

What is Radiofrequency?
Varicose veins are often misunderstood as a cosmetic problem and many people living with them do not seek treatment. The good news is that there are minimally invasive treatment options available for varicose veins and CVI.

The ClosureFast™ procedure uses controlled and consistent heat delivered by the ClosureFast™ catheter to seal the diseased vein. Once the vein is sealed, blood is rerouted to nearby healthy veins.

The ClosureFast™ procedure has been rigorously tested and proven across multiple studies and patients.

About the ClosureFast™ Procedure
The ClosureFast™ procedure uses radiofrequency energy to precisely and effectively treat patients suffering from Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI).The ClosureFast™ catheter is inserted into the vein through a tiny incision below the knee. Guided by ultrasound imaging, the physician treats a 7 cm segment of vein with a 20-second burst of radiofrequency energy, causing the vessel to shrink around the catheter. The physician withdraws the catheter, treating each segment until the entire length of the vein has been sealed. The heat provided by the catheter shrinks and collapses the target vein, creating a fibrotic seal and occluding the vessel. An average 45 cm length vein can be treated in this manner in just three to five minutes.

Unlike painful vein stripping surgery or laser ablation, the catheter delivers uniform, consistent heat to each segment and temperatures do not exceed 120° C. As a result, the procedure causes less bruising and allows for rapid patient relief and recovery.

Minimally Invasive
The ClosureFast™ procedure eliminates the need for groin surgery and general anesthesia, and is generally performed using local anesthesia with or without sedation in a specialist’s office or an outpatient surgical facility. The procedure takes approximately 45-60 minutes and most patients typically spend two to three hours at the medical facility due to normal pre- and post-treatment procedures.

Less Pain, Less Bruising, Faster Recovery
Studies show that the ClosureFast™ procedure is associated with lower rates of pain, bruising and complications and a faster improvement in patients’ quality of life when compared to 980 nm laser ablation. The average patient typically resumes normal activities within a few days following treatment, and most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within 1-2 weeks after the ClosureFast™ procedure.

Clinical Outcomes
A prospective, international, multi-center study showed that 91.9% of treated veins were closed 5 years following treatment with the ClosureFast™ procedure. The study used the Kaplan Meier analysis, a common statistic used for a variety of endpoints, including effectiveness of a treatment over defined period of time.

The procedure is performed as a medical necessity as diagnosed by a trained vein specialist. It is not designed to address spider veins or cosmetic issues. However, the successful treatment of CVI using the ClosureFast procedure can produce cosmetic improvements. As with any medical procedure, you should consult a specialist and review all safety information associated with any procedure.

Patient Documents:

How long does the ClosureFast™ Procedure take?
The ClosureFast™ procedure typically takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Most patients typically spend two to three hours at the medical facility due to normal pre- and post-treatment procedures.

Does the ClosureFast™ Procedure require anesthesia?
The ClosureFast™ procedure can be performed under local, regional or general anesthesia. It is generally performed using local anesthesia in a vein specialist’s office or an outpatient surgical facility.

After the ClosureFast™ Procedure, how quickly can I return to normal activities?
Many patients experience a quick return to normal activities, typically within a few days. For a few weeks following the treatment, a vein specialist may recommend a regular walking regimen and suggest you refrain from very strenuous activities (i.e., heavy lifting) or prolonged periods of standing.

How soon will my symptoms improve after the ClosureFast™ Procedure?
Most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within one to two weeks following the procedure.

Can I expect any bruising or tenderness after the ClosureFast™ Procedure?
Although it is possible to experience pain, bruising or tenderness after treatment, many patients report minimal to no scarring, bruising or swelling following the ClosureFast™ procedure. Speak to your physician to learn more about the ClosureFast™ Procedure, its risks and outcomes.

What potential risks and complications are associated with the ClosureFast™ Procedure?
As with any medical intervention, potential risks and complications exist with the ClosureFast™ procedure. A vein specialist will have a consultation with you to determine if your conditions present any special risks. They will also review with you potential complications associated with the ClosureFast™ Procedure , which can include, but are not limited to, vessel perforation, thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, phlebitis, hematoma, infection, paresthesia (numbness or tingling), skin discoloration, skin burn and/or adjunct nerve injury.

Is the ClosureFast™ Procedure covered by insurance?
Many insurance companies pay for the ClosureFast™ procedure in part or in full. The ClosureFast™ procedure has coverage policies with major health insurers. Prior to seeking treatment, consult your insurance provider to confirm coverage.